One of the world’s leading sport and entertainment consultancy companies, Gemba, has announced the appointment of Claire Kelly as the general manager of Europe, as the organisation looks to grow their European expansion.

Kelly, who was previously the COO of Twenty First Group, will be based in London, where she will report to Andrew Condon, who has become Gemba’s global managing director.

Additionally, Kelly brings extensive knowledge and experience from major data projects in the retail industry.

Commenting on her appointment, Kelly, said: “I’m tremendously excited to be joining Gemba to lead their expansion into Europe.”

“Gemba has established a fantastic reputation in the Asia Pacific region, working with some of the biggest rights holders and brands across business strategy, data infrastructure and analytics projects.

“The quality of the project work already delivered in Europe shows the appetite for Gemba’s offer on these shores.  I’m really looking forward to working with Andrew and to bringing to market a compelling offer for future clients and partners,” she said.

Condon, added: “This is a significant step for our business and builds on the recent work we have delivered across Europe.”

“We are excited to have recruited someone of Claire’s calibre and experience. Her knowledge, and capability across the data, analytics, and strategy on both the client and consultancy side makes her the perfect person to lead our European business,” he said.

Over the past 18 months, Gemba has grown significantly throughout Europe, working with the likes of FIFA, adidas, the British & Irish Lions, Arsenal, Fulham FC, eSkooter and the ECB.

The announcement comes after Gemba attended the 2022 Women in Sport Summit, where head of insights, Andrew Goodieson, discussed their research, ‘Shifting the Goalposts’.